The Strength to Take Charge

Staff Sergeant Kenneth Kinlaw

Balancing the Army Reserve and the civilian life it’s difficult at times but very rewarding.

I'm Staff Sergeant Kenneth Kinlaw; I'm a Civil Affairs Specialist for the United States Army Reserve.

Balancing the Army Reserve and the civilian life it's difficult at times but very rewarding.

You have a family life, I have a son, I'm active in his life. If everybody would give just a little bit then it works. If not, I wouldn't be able to do what I do. I don't think we could go and deploy to these foreign countries and dangerous situations, combat zones, without a strong family to make sure things are taken care of at home.

I work for Procter & Gamble, we make Bounty, Charmin all the ultra and the basic. So I make paper.

Using the skills that I've learned in the Army that transition to the civilian life as far as Procter & Gamble concern it that been in situations where, it was dangerous. Work in situations where you had to exhibit leadership skills because you had to Soldiers under you.

I think Procter & Gamble is looking for someone who can think independently but at the same time can work within a team concept, a team environment.

Teamwork is important for any situation where you have two or more, or that you have to accomplish a goal that you can't accomplish by yourself or a mission.

I don't think anyone has ever been in the Army that hasn't experience comradery on different levels. Some people you're going to connect with right away, they may like sports, other people may like surfing or whatever. But you'll find that everybody comes together to complete a mission.

I don't think that I would have the knowledge and out look that I have if not for the Army Reserve and the traveling that I've done and the cultures that I've seen, good and bad. I think they help you grow as a person and to appreciate the United States.